Down Right Brilliant, a charity for young people with Down's syndrome, is holding its 10th annual summer camp at Ballyholland Community Centre near Newry. The camp runs across two weeks, one for primary school children and one for post-primary, with 67 families from counties Down and Armagh taking part.

The group has existed for nearly 30 years, but this marks a decade of its dedicated youth club and summer camp, according to Yvonne Curran. Youth club leader Emer Reilly said both children and volunteers benefit greatly from the experience.

Activities at the camp include tours of a fire engine, sports such as football and basketball, day trips, a pizza truck, a petting farm, and singing and dancing. The abilities of the young people range from non-verbal or significant mobility issues to greater independence.

Curran explained that the club was founded to give teenagers a space of their own when peers began attending discos or the cinema independently.

Funding for the camp comes from a mix of public and private sources. Curran said the group has received support from local businesses, sporting organisations, and sponsorship from two banks, and it was selected as the Mayor’s Chosen Charity. Grants have also been secured.

On volunteering, Reilly said the group has 20 steady volunteers, supplemented by others who come when available. Many are students heading into teaching, medicine, accountancy, or administration. She noted the positive atmosphere, saying moods lift after spending time with the children.

Denise Hayward of Volunteer Now said volunteering rates in Northern Ireland fell during the pandemic but have since recovered. She pointed to the recent All-Ireland Fleadh in Belfast, where more than 1,300 people volunteered, as an example of the improvement. Hayward added that offering flexible time commitments has been important for organisations.

Participants spoke about the friendships they have formed. Kate said she enjoys scoring goals and meeting new people. Jack plays basketball, soccer, and hockey, and values time with friends. Leah takes part in basketball, swimming, and horse-riding. Patrick and Aren like colouring and superheroes; Patrick said a bouncy castle was due to arrive later in the week.